According to the State Department of Health and Human Services, the first case of the South African coronavirus variant was found in North Carolina.
DHHS officials said the case was found in a sample of an adult in the central part of the state who did not travel. To protect the privacy of the person, no other information will be disclosed.
The B.1.351 variant was first introduced in South Africa in October. North Carolina joins South Carolina, Maryland and Virginia to report cases of the variant.
As of February 9, nine cases have been found in the United States.
Health officials have warned that data show the variant is more contagious but does not cause a serious illness.
DHHS is adapting its recommendations for mask wear, based on updated guidance from the Disease Control Center:
- Make sure the mask fits well against the face and covers the nose and mouth.
- Use two or more coats for your face covering.
- Do not wear two disposable masks.
- Make sure you can easily see and breathe.
Last week, South Africa suspended plans to give doses of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine to healthcare professionals, after data from a small clinical dissertation indicated that it is not as effective in preventing mild to moderate diseases of the variant .
AstraZeneca said Thursday that an updated version of the vaccine should be ready by the fall.
